Details

Management theories often boil down to two pans – high level, strategic management with little engagement in the specifics of what they manage, and micro-managers who care about how and what is done at every step.  There are many talking about balance however I have found in my experience that each misses a very important point; details matter.  I am not advocating micromanagement.  Quite the contrary!  I personally hate being micromanaged.  I refuse to micromanage anyone I am fortunate enough to work with.  It doesn’t make sense.  You have a brain, use it!  The idea that my brain is big, strong, and open enough for two is crazy; I have a hard time using it just for myself.
 
My experiential observation is simply this; if those in command do not care about the details why should we?  Details are the fabric of life, capturing the nuances of what makes each life colorful, energized, and different.  Details are the elements which define relationships.  And yet, controlling details is not the essence of leadership and management.  When the “God-of-the-Angel-Armies speaks: ‘Exactly as I planned, it will happen.  Following my blueprints, it will take shape.” (Isaiah 14.24)  This voice reflects someone who cares about details as well as freedom, empowerment, and teamwork. 
 
Leadership and management ideally bring us truth about the vision and dream of where we might be.  Within this frame, the details which emerge are the leading indicators of how the community understands and articulates the framework presented.  There are two keys; understanding and experiencing truth filled visions and dreams and clear understandings of individual roles, responsibilities, and skill gifts.  The greater each brings to the present, never one without the other, the greater the power of the community.
 
Today dawns and everything is in play.  How will we lead (each is a leader if only for themselves)?  What truth will present?  Will we act as part of a community or try to do it on our own?  The details which follow are indicators of the answer.  Winning comes from listening, reflecting, and being open to life’s feedback?